RCSI CST interview practice

Ready for the CST interview.

The interview is 85% of your Core Surgical Training score. Practise each part out loud, against the clock, and compare your answer with model points.

For July 2026, 510 doctors applied, 245 were interviewed and 101 received a first-round offer, for 100 places (RCSI intake data).

How you’re scored

Seven parts, 85% at interview.

Undergraduate academic record · 5%

Application. Your centile from medical school.

Surgical aptitude tests · 10%

Application. Psychomotor skills, visuospatial ability and perception.

Clinical judgement · 10%

Interview. Structured clinical scenarios.

Interpersonal skills · 15%

Interview. Communication, teamwork and leadership, crisis management, negotiation and conflict.

Professional development · 20%

Interview. Research, audit, courses and meetings, teaching.

Suitability for specialty training · 30%

Interview. Motivation, knowledge of the specialty, time and stress management, professionalism.

Personal presentation · 10%

Interview. Your story so far, and what makes you a good future surgeon.

From the RCSI’s Guide to Core Surgical Training Intake 2027. Check the RCSI website for this year’s dates.